Ireland players vote to face Israel despite initial boycott threat

Republic of Ireland will face Israel in Sunday’s Nations League fixture after the squad voted against a proposed boycott following four hours of discussions. According to The Telegraph, goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu had expressed his reluctance to play the match, prompting discussions among teammates about collectively withdrawing in protest over Israel’s actions in Gaza.

However, Football Association of Ireland chief executive David Courell confirmed that a “significant majority” of players voted to fulfil the fixture during a final 90-minute discussion. Ireland will train on Saturday before travelling to Debrecen, Hungary, where the match will be played at a neutral venue.